One of the biggest trends for families who are never together is planning a family board game night. It’s an idea originally used to market board games, but it’s also an idea that families all over are embracing.Why? Because in this modern age of video games, cell phones, television, and endless planned activities, the amount of time we actually spend with our children is dwindling. Too many families are never together, and when they are, they are staring at the television, texting their friends, or all in separate rooms doing separate activities.Planning a family board game night is perfect for people who value their family time and recognize that their children are growing up and away without really spending quality time with them.Remember, playing a game with your child is supposed to be fun, and not something that will end up in a child stalking off in tears. Sometimes, parents have to force themselves to play a game that is less than challenging and simply enjoy watching your child have fun. Before you know it, that game of Shoots and Ladders can be fun even for the adult.Choose your games carefully. This can be tough when you have children of varying ages and skills. It’s okay to help a younger child, just make sure you speak to your older child and explain why their brother or sister is getting extra help and they are not. You want to avoid the “It’s not fair!” cry that can come from this strategy.One thing to do is the Great Compromise. Start the night off with a game your little one can easily play, and then move on to something that might be a bit more challenging for your ten-year-old. Junior versions of games can be perfect for the elementary-aged children and still leave enough challenge for adults to have fun.Board games are relatively inexpensive, so it’s easy to build a library of games. That way, you’ll never grow bored with the two or three games on your shelf. Remember to get a variety of games, some that are just silly fun, and other that may have a learning aspect to them.And don’t forget that you can pull out a board game any time your kids get bored. You don’t have to wait for the entire family to be around, but keep them as a fun option on those rainy days.

Who doesn’t like Monopoly, Risk, Battleship or Candyland? Keep the kids entertained longer. Make parties and events more fun by having a few game favorites around. Nothing livens a party like Pictionary or Scene It. If the kids are having a sleepover what better way to entertain them then with a game or two. Keep them happy and out of trouble with a game of Trouble or Risk.More often than not a good game can really liven up the party. Everyone remembers Battleship and loves to play. What were some of your favorite games? Do you remember playing board games with grandma or grandpa. Playing Yahtzee with grandma or Monopoly wit mom. Brothers and sisters can do battle without going to war. Board games are a great way to bring a busy family together. How about some family time? I know it brings back a ton of great memories for me. Playing Yahtzee with grandma or Monopoly wit momHaving a few games around for the holidays and for the holiday company is a great idea. Playing Clue with uncle Norman is a blast! Bunco makes a great game if you have a few folks that are willing to have a good time.Don’t forget those great card games as well. Rummy, go fish, and of course Uno and Skipbo. If it’s been a while since you’ve played, grab a game and a buddy. It just as much fun as you remember! Try it and you’ll see. Have fun!